LIVING IN LONDON
Moving to London with a pet: travel rules, housing and daily life
A pet move has two separate plans: legal entry into Great Britain and a realistic London home, transport and care routine.
Start with official entry rules
Approved routes, microchipping, rabies vaccination, waiting periods and travel documents depend on where the animal travels from. Begin early with GOV.UK and a qualified vet.
Confirm the carrier
Air, rail and sea operators apply route and handling rules in addition to the legal entry requirements. Obtain written confirmation before making non-refundable plans.
Find a suitable home
Ask for the pet policy before paying a holding deposit. Consider outdoor access, noise, stairs, nearby green space and the animal’s ability to handle a smaller home.
Build the local care network
Register with a vet, identify emergency care, review insurance and plan safe transport. Update microchip and contact records after the move.